Micheal Kerry Counts

Mike Counts died early in the morning on July 20, 2023. He was

born on May 28, 1952, to Neal E. and Gwendolyn J. (Bare) Counts in

Oakland, California.

While serving in the Air Force in Spain, Mike fell in love with

and later married fellow airman April Atkinson. They shared the

simple joys of married life for 45 years. Mike was especially proud of

their son, Max Alexander, who has matured into a thoughtful and

kind human being. Mike couldn't have been happier when Max and

his longtime partner, Gillian Rose Perry, announced they'd be getting

married next year.

Mike spent 34 years in the computer field and retired as the

Information Technology Manager at the California Department of

Transportation. He enjoyed his job and made so many wonderful

friends. After retiring and vacationing in Europe in 2015, Mike

suggested the family move to Manhattan, Kansas, in order to support

April's mother.

Mike was the type of guy who always had a checklist of projects

to do. He enjoyed doing home improvements, tending to his beautiful

lawn, and chatting with friendly neighbors. He had a passion for

exercise, and a favorite activity was exploring the countryside on his

bicycle. Mike's lifetime motto was, "Keep moving!"

Mike loved loud rock music, cheesy Italian food, and an

occasional glass of dry red wine. He loved solving math equations,

tinkering with gadgets and computers, and spending way too much

time figuring out how to weave his dumb jokes into plausible stories.

Mike had a way of making every adventure more fun.

Mike leaves behind his wife April and son Max. He is also

survived by Waunetta M. Atkinson (mother-in-law), Lori Luscomb

(sister), Diane and Julie Atkinson (sisters-in-law), and Michael

Atkinson (brother-in-law). In addition, there are 3 nieces, 1 nephew, 6

great nephews, 3 great nieces, 1 great great nephew, and 1 great great

niece.

Although Mike struggled with brain cancer the last 7 months of

his life, he continued to express gratitude for a life well lived. Above

all, Mike will be remembered for his kindness toward others, his love

of corny jokes, and his playful sense of humor.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to encourage a donation

in Mike's name to Good Shepherd Homecare & Hospice. They are a

non-profit organization that provides outstanding support in a

family's worst moments. We were blessed to receive their care.